What term describes the transmission method where data is sent in bursts rather than continuously?

The transmission method where data is sent in bursts rather than continuously is referred to as asynchronous transmission. In this method, data is sent in discrete packets or bursts, which are spaced out in time, allowing for intervals between the transmissions. Each burst of data is typically framed with start and stop bits that help the receiving system recognize the beginning and end of each piece of data.

This approach is particularly beneficial for situations where the data may not need to be sent continuously, allowing for efficient use of the transmission medium. It can also accommodate varying data transmission rates and reduce the overhead associated with maintaining a continuous connection, which is a characteristic of synchronous communication methods.

In contrast, full duplex refers to a mode where data transmission can occur in both directions simultaneously; synchronous transmission involves continuous data transfer with a consistent clock signal, and token passing is a network protocol that enables nodes to communicate by passing a token. These concepts, while related to data transmission, do not specifically describe the burst transmission characteristic outlined in the question.